I had an arm lift and my right armpit is in lots of pain with puss, is this normal? (Photo)

Thank you for detailing your concerns about the appearance and sensations in your right armpit post-arm lift. Based on your provided history and photos, while I do not directly observe pus, there appears to be an open wound with exposed sutures. Such sutures, if they seem non-functional, should probably be removed. It's not unusual for open wounds to cause pain, but it doesn't necessarily indicate a complication. However, if you suspect the presence of pus, it's imperative to consult with your surgeon without delay. Pus can clearly indicate an infection, necessitating antibiotics and potential surgical wound debridement. I strongly recommend a prompt follow-up with your plastic surgeon for a thorough assessment and guidance on the next steps.
Sincerely, Dr. Katzen

These are all signs of an infection. You should contact your plastic surgeon for an evaluation and treatment. Best wishes, Dr. ALDO

I appreciate your question.





Since there has been a change in your post op course, please contact your surgeon so he/she can examine you and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan at this time.



The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.



Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.





Best of luck!





Dr. Schwartz



Board Certified Plastic Surgeon



#RealSelf100Surgeon



#RealSelfCORESurgeon

This is not normal after any surgical procedure. You should go to the surgeon who performed the procedure and if they are not available you should see a medical provider right away.

It is difficult to answer your question based on limited information that you have supplied.  I would recommend you see your operating surgeon ASAP if you have any questions.  In general, it is normal to have some pain after surgery, but not normal to have lots of pain with puss.  Again, you need to contact your operating surgeon and see him/her to answer your question.

This is not uncommon after an arm lift. It happens as there is a lot of movement that causes the incision to open a little and bacteria in the underarm to create infection, etc. Your doctor could consider an AquaCel / Silver type dressing that works like an antibiotic to speed up the healing, do a wound swab to determine the type of bacterial and possibly put you on antibiotics. These are general principles and what you need should be determined by what your doctor and yourself decide as the best course.